Hundreds miles walked for homeless people by care experienced children
A group of our foster children and their carers from the South West have been working together to raise money and awareness for homeless people in Cornwall this winter.
The children and young people taking part, aged between seven and 15, are all currently in foster care through our Cornwall office in Truro. The idea to fundraise for homelessness came from a group of young people in care during a Make a Difference meeting. The meetings are made up of fostered children from across the West Country who worked together to plan the activity. 
Ten young people, nine carers and six Five Rivers staff members, have walked a combined total of just over 400 miles, meeting their goal, along the South West Coast Path from St Agnes to Penzance and Prussia Cove to Lizard Point, raising over £460.
Alongside walking hundreds of miles, one young person asked children in her school to bring in donations and to raise awareness for homelessness by having a non-uniform day. Another young person organised a bake sale at her school, raising over £50.
Working with Breadline as part of St Petroc’s Society in Penzance, a non-profit organisation supporting local homeless people, the funds raised by the children purchased items like sleeping bags, blankets, warm clothing and insulated mugs, which have already been shared with people in local shelters. The donations will also help Breadline provide a warm place for many to sleep for one week during the winter.
Sarah Wells, service manager at Five Rivers in Truro, said: “This event has been a heart-warming opportunity for children and young people in care to give back to their communities, especially during the holiday season. Their actions are a reminder for us all on the importance of coming together during difficult times to support those around us.
“The young people who came up with the idea have been overwhelmed by the donations, and they are keen to complete their 400-mile goal and raise more money for and awareness of local homelessness in the months to come. We are so proud of everyone involved.”
For more information on foster care contact Five Rivers Child Care on 0345 266 0272 or email [email protected].